Nautical Knot Heart from Liz of Howling at the Moon. While this is just a display, it is a beautiful piece, and includes the basic idea of how you can create your own! I think this piece would make a lovely pendant, or brooch.

Made from thread, you could even create a pair of earrings with these -

think I just got an idea :)

Granny Squares and Stripes Cushions from Vrolijk by Leen. In this post, you'll find three different ways you can incorporate the ever-popular Granny Pattern. While this post does not include links to any patterns, it serves wonderful inspiration for us all.

My Favorites:

From Left to Right, Top to Bottom

Crochet Baby Gift Set from Laura of Over the Apple Tree. Laura did a fantastic job on this adorable little baby set! It includes a 7-Point Star Blanket, and a Bunny. View with her to find her sources. This makes the perfect gift at a baby shower, to a new mother, or any of the first few birthdays of a little one.

Strawberry Brooch from Green Rabbit Designs. After seeing this adorable little Strawberry Brooch, I immediately started looking around to see what other adorable items Vivienne has. She has made such Sweet Bunnies! Make sure you stop by and meet the Bunnies. Each tells their own story, and personality.

Sweet Little Baby Blanket with a Boy in Mind from Linda's Crafty Corner. This is a beautiful blanket made by Linda for charity - what a wonderful gift to share! I love how each round is a little different, but all tied together with by the color scheme. What great inspiration for us!

Crochet Afghan and Stenciled Pillows from Vintage Paint and More. I love the relaxing, beachy feel I get from this afghan. The almost basket weave pattern in this afghan sends visions of waves to mind. What a gorgeous afghan! And a lucky husband of Cathy's ;)

My Philosopher Favorite:

Rachel's been working on some adorable little booties for her littlest one.

I love the creamy color of these!

This Weeks Giveaway is sponsored by Buttons and Things. One winner will receive their choice of one set of buttons or magnets.

Must be 18 Years or Older to Enter. US only. Void where prohibited. Winner will be notified by The Philosopher's Wife, and have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. Social Media not affiliated with Giveaway. Buttons and Things is responsible for prize fulfillment, not EyeLoveKnots nor The Philosopher's Wife. Any questions? Feel free to contact The Philosopher's Wife.a Rafflecopter giveaway

Join the Party!

The Yarn Fanatic Party will begin every Monday afternoon, and run through Sunday night. You have all week and weekend to post your fantastic yarn related projects!

Please share projects that are family friendly.

We encourage you to:

*Become a Follower of the blog where you linked up. Following both is also greatly appreciated!

Features will be chosen weekly. By linking up, you give us permission to feature your item.*If you don't have a blog, you can still share with us by creating a Free Flickr Account - powered by Yahoo. Add your projects there, and then come back here with the link for the project.

Friday, February 20, 2015

After completing my Small Plastic Canvas Hearts tutorial yesterday, I decided to put together some dangle earrings using the red heart cut outs. I LOVE these earrings! They've been worn for two days straight and are wonderful! They are lightweight, and I received MANY compliments! Can't wait to make them in various colors!Make sure to tune back in tomorrow as I have one more dangle earring project for you using these blank colored plastic canvas hearts!Materials: - Small Amount of Colored 7 Mesh Plastic Canvas - I used Christmas Red - 14 8mm 18 Gauge Jumps Rings - I used the Gold Tone from CanterburyLane on Etsy - 2 Earrings Hooks - I used Gold Tone Fish Hooks by Darice (JoAnns) - 2 Round Nose Pliers - 2 Earring Backs - I like to use the rubber onesMaterial Notes: I have it on my list to get some other colored canvas to try this with. Hobby Lobby has quite a large variety. You could also use some clear canvas and stitch it, in place of using blank colored canvas. I have a tutorial on cutting and stitching these Small Little Plastic Canvas Hearts. I love using the professional grade, heavy jump rings from Canterbury Lane. If using a generic jump ring purchased from your local craft store, you may want to use two jumps in place of a single one for extra support. Because the jump rings that I use are too strong to open with my fingers and to use of one pair of pliers, I have to use one to hold the jump ring and one to twist open the jump ring. If using a generic jump ring, one pair of pliers will suffice.Time Spent: I was able to complete this pair of earrings in less than 30 minutes.Measurements: The small hearts measure 1.5" wide, and dangle 2".DIY Notes:Opening a Jump Ring:

You open the jump ring towards you, not side to side.
You close it the same way.

DIY:

Here is the pattern for the plastic canvas cut out.
If you need assistance cutting or stitching the heart (if you go that route),
visit my Small Plastic Canvas Hearts tutorial!

Start by linking your jump rings to the top, farthest hole on the canvas.
You will need to attach three to each side, as shown.

Open one jump ring and grab the last jump ring on the right side...

And also grab the last jump ring on the left side...

And string on the link of your earring hook.
Make sure the part of the earring that goes into your ear,
is facing away from you.

Repeat for the other earring,
and you have an adorable set of Dangle Heart Earrings!

Make sure to tune back in tomorrow as I have one more dangle earring project for you using these blank colored plastic canvas hearts!

Thursday, February 19, 2015

A couple years ago, I put together the Conversation Hearts Headband you see below. It's been very popular on Etsy and Pinterest, so I was thinking about sharing the tutorial as part of my 14 Days of Valentine Inspired Crafts Self Challenge, but I didn't get around it to.

Because hearts are great all year, and not only for Valentine's Day, I still want to share the heart pattern with you.You can use these small hearts in so many projects! Attach to some chain to make into a keychain, use are part of jewelry, use as a scrapbook embellishment.I have two earring tutorials ready to share with you over the next few days, but I have lots of other ideas for these cute little plastic canvas hearts. Other tutorials in the works.Materials: - Small Amount of 7 Mesh Plastic Canvas - I used Clear and Christmas Red - 1 Yard of Worsted Weight Yarn Per Heart - I used Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red and Baby Pink, and Caron One Pound in a Lavender-like color and pastel yellow color but I am unsure of the color names. These have all been in my stash for years. - #18 or #20 Embroidery NeedleMaterial Notes: I have been working plastic canvas projects for almost 10 years now, and of all the yarns that I have worked with, my favorite for plastic canvas projects are Red Heart Super Saver, Caron One Pound and Bernat Super Value. They aren't as soft so they tend to stay a little fluffier within the canvas, plus they are a little more durable and come in a large color variety of economically priced and packaged skeins.Time Spent: Each stitched heart will take about fifteen minutes to complete.Measurements: 1.25" Tall by 1.5" Wide

Pattern:

Work the red slashes as a continental stitch,

and then whipstitch around edges after.

Since I do tend to work stitching a little different than the "correct" way,

I have included photos below to show how I find it best/easiest to work.

Cutting:

Continental Stitch:

Cut a strand of yarn and thread your needle.

This heart takes about 30" worth of yarn, just under a yard.

I like to work from top to bottom, and then top to bottom of the following row...

If you are still new to plastic canvas, you will start by bring your needle up from behind, and then down diagonally.

This can be seen in the second, third and fourth images.

Make sure you keep at least a 0.5"-0.75" tail

when you make your initial insertion.

Through the rest of the rows, you will be working around this tail to secure.

You can see in the fourth image that my index finger is holding the yarn tail.

Also make sure you are following the

pattern image of where to start your first stitch!

I have intentionally left the top corner piece unworked, so work over at the end.

Continue down the row...

At the end of the first row, I like to start again at the top (of the next row).

You will continue in the manner of inserting your needle at the top right,

and bring it down diagonally on the left.

Make sure you are working around your tail piece to secure.

You can see the tail piece more in these images.

After working down through the center of the heart,

I like to start from the top down on the opposite side -

because of the upward diagonal "stair case" in the canvas.

In the second image, you will see how I like to keep the tension on my yarn.

Whipstitch:

I like to work my whipstitch counter clockwise.

I find it easiest to hold the project and tension

in my right hand going in this direction.

I place 2-3 stitches per hole. You will see in the second, third and fourth

images I use 3 stitches per corner -

with the second of this three to cover the point.

In the sixth image, you'll see how I like to keep the tension.

The last image stops before I worked up the side of the heart -

in the sides I place 2 stitches per hole.

I like my plastic canvas projects to have a nice full look.

When you are back around to where you started,
work the stitch as usual, but on the backside of the
piece you will take your needle under a few stitches, and then trim.
I like to be extra sure with my weaves so I go back and forth once -
you don't have to.
The last image shows the back of the piece - nice and clean.
If you don't like this showing, you can cut a piece of felt and hot glue to the back to cover it up.

Enjoy your adorable little hearts!

These are the colors I picked in my Conversation Hearts Headband.

I've had the yarn in the stash for so long that I don't remember the color names.

Please feel free to make and sell your own Small Plastic Canvas Hearts using this pattern, but please DO NOT claim this pattern as your own nor should you sell my pattern, and DO NOT re-publish my photos as your own. DO NOT copy and paste my pattern anywhere, link to it instead.

I will be taking a trip back to Hobby Lobby on Friday to get some more yarn so I can keep working, and hopefully get a pattern and better pictures out to you all soon!

If you are interested in purchasing a crocheted afghan, feel free to send me your custom color and size request. Visit my Etsy shop for more information, and to see what's in stock!I have a Free Plastic Canvas Pattern coming to you tomorrow! Make sure to tune back in! Subscribe to EyeLoveKnots using the box to the right, or via Bloglovin.

Monday, February 16, 2015

Welcome to the 24th Yarn Fanatic Link Party, and my seventh as co-host, alongside Rachel from The Philosopher's Wife.

I completed my 14 Days of Valentine Inspired Crafts Self-Challenge, with the exception of the 14th day. Sad face. I had to take care of some things are home, and just haven't had a chance to get the last one up. It will be a plastic canvas project, and something that's good any time of the year, so it will still be a great one! I'm hoping to have it up either tomorrow or Wednesday.The above image is the other half of my crafts, as I showed you the first half at our last party - Yarn Fanatic Link Party #23. If you've missed any, you can still find the main post of them and the other Valentine Inspired crafts, recipes, stories, decor, party ideas, printables, date night ideas and more - 14 Days of Valentine Inspired Craft Link Up.Most Clicked:

From Left to Right:

Star Blanket from Hooks, Lines and Singers. This Star Blanket is just one of four projects found on this post. For all of the projects, she uses yarn from her stash - great motivation. Doesn't take much to complete some projects. Back to the blanket - fantastic job!

Firecracker Shrug from A Day in the Life. The colorway chosen for this shrug is a beautiful choice. Crystal gives us her tips for working this up to make it fit better. Overall, great shrug for those days you need a little extra coverage but don't want to put on a sweater.

Moogly Blog CAL Block #2 from Milena Places/My Places. Overall, the square looks great! I love the combination of all the bright colors. I really like to the green that she choose because it goes together well with the rest of the colors, is not overwhelming. It is a little different than the first square she made, but that's the beauty of working a sampler blanket - they can all be different! You are the artist, and you make it to your liking. Great job :)

My Yarn Favorites:

A little funky order, but I was having trouble getting this one to fit...

Top Center - Sophie's Universe CAL from Ladybug Dreams. Such a beautiful, soft colorway combination here. I love it. She also has some Moogly Blog 2015 CAL blocks on this post too - make sure to check them out!

Bottom Left - Red Dress for Doll from Tess and Annie. Inspired by a movie, brought to life by Tess. This red dress is gorgeous!

Bottom Center - Periwinkle Lace Shawl from Undeniable Glitter. I don't knit (yet) but I've added this to my "When I Learn to Knit" board because I LOVE this shawl! It is made with a nice soothing periwinkle color that shimmers. It looks lightweight and perfect for the upcoming Spring Season. Thanks for sharing this free knit pattern!

Right - Moogly Blog CAL Block 1 from Milena Places/My Places. This is such a nice, warm colored square. For anyone still facing snow, just glance over at this afghan block. Wonderfully done, and great color choices!

My Philosopher Favorite:

This Berries Blast Beanie looks so scrumptious!
I love the gorgeous colorway. It has a nice subtle change, in keeping with the berry inspired color changes.
The photos taken in the snow add a nice touch too :) Here in the Sunshine State, we don't experience as white.
Today, we had a gorgeous day in the 70's.
Anywho, grab some Red Heart Medley Yarn, your knitting needles and head over to the Philosopher's Wife to read more about this beanie!

This Weeks Giveaway is a continuation from last week, and sponsored by Expression Fiber Arts. They are giving away a skein of Celestial 'Resilient' Superwash Merino Sock Yarn to one lucky winner. If you haven't seen this yarn yet, make sure to check it out! The colorway is a gorgeous combination of silvery gray, black, pink and purple. This yarn is hand created, with no two skeins identical. One really great thing about this yarn is the "superwash" quality - meaning it can be machine washed without the worry of felting or the piece being ruined.a Rafflecopter giveaway

You must be 18 years or older to enter and be a US resident. Void where prohibited. Winner will be notified by email from Rachel of The Philosopher's Wife, and have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be drawn. Neither EyeLoveKnots nor The Philosopher's Wife are responsible for prize fulfillment, rather Expression Fiber Arts is. Social media is not affiliated with this giveaway. Contact Rachel of The Philosopher's Wife with any questions.

Join the Party!

The Yarn Fanatic Party will begin every Monday afternoon, and run through Sunday night. You have all week and weekend to post your fantastic yarn related projects!

The rule is simple - please share projects that are family friendly.

We encourage you to:

*Become a Follower of the blog where you linked up. Following both is also greatly appreciated!

Features will be chosen weekly. By linking up, you give us permission to feature your item.*If you don't have a blog, you can still share with us by creating a Free Flickr Account - powered by Yahoo. Add your projects there, and then come back here with the link for the project.

Friday, February 13, 2015

This adorable Newborn Twin Chunky Beanie Set will be the last part of the Valentine Inspired Photo Prop Set. You can find links to the whole collection at the bottom of this post.Below you will find a basic beanie pattern, along with a feminine shell edged version.These are great as photo props, or as baby shower gifts. They are also great for donating to your local hospital, as they are soft and machine washable and dryable.Materials: - Less than 50 yards of Chunky Yarn (5) - I used Deborah Norville's Serenity Chunky Yarn in the Berry Burst colorway - For Shell Edged Hat, additional small amount of Chunky Yarn (5) - I used Deborah Norville's Serenity Chunky Yarn in the Pristine colorway - L11/8mm Crochet Hook - Tapestry Needle for Weaving in Ends - I like to use a #18Time Spent: Each beanie works up in less than 30 minutes.Measurements: These hats will fit a newborn up to 3 months (with room for a little more) - to fit a head circumference of 16-17", and 5" in lengthGauge: 7 DCs x 4 Rows = 3" SquareAbbreviations: HDC - Half Double Crochet SC - Single CrochetAdsense:

Pattern Notes: Hats are worked in a continuous round, without joining unless otherwise stated.Invisible Join:

Cut your thread, pull the loop out from where your
crochet hook and then thread your yarn end into your yarn needle.

Insert your needle under both loops of the first
stitch that you are joining to.

You will see in this image,
the beginning/first half of a stitch.

Take your needle down through the
center of the previous stitch.

When I take my needle down,
I also like to begin the weaving process.
Tug on your piece to ensure that the
"stitch" that you just created with the
invisible join is even with the rest.

Basic Hat Pattern:

Chain 3, join to form a ring. Chain 1, work 6 HDC into the ring. (6 HDC)R2: Work 2 HDC in each HDC around (12 HDC)R3: Work (2 HDC in the next HDC, and 1 HDC in the following HDC) around (18 HDC)R4: Work (2 HDC in the next HDC, and 1 HDC in each of the following 2 HDC) around (24 HDC)R5: Work (2 SC in the next HDC, and 1 SC in each of the following 3 HDC) around (30 SC)R6 - 10: Work 1 HDC in each stitch around (30 HDC)R11: Work 1 SC in each stitch around (30 SC). Join to first SC.Fasten Off, and Weave in Ends.Shell Edged Girl Hat Pattern:

Chain 3, join to form a ring. Chain 1, work 6 HDC into the ring. (6 HDC)R2: Work 2 HDC in each HDC around (12 HDC)R3: Work (2 HDC in the next HDC, and 1 HDC in the following HDC) around (18 HDC)R4: Work (2 HDC in the next HDC, and 1 HDC in each of the following 2 HDC) around (24 HDC)R5: Work (2 SC in the next HDC, and 1 SC in each of the following 3 HDC) around (30 SC)R6 - 8: Work 1 HDC in each stitch around (30 HDC)R9: Work 1 SC in each HDC around (30 SC). Join to 1st SC with new color.R10: In Pristine colorway, SC in each SC around. Join to 1st SC.R11: Chain 1. Work a SC decrease, skip 2 stitches, 5 DC in the next stitch, skip 2 stitches, (SC in the next stitch, skip 2 stitches, 5 DC in the next stitch, skip 2 stitches) around. Join to 1st SC - here I worked the invisible join. Photo tutorial for this found in Pattern Notes section. Fasten Off, and Weave in Ends.Enjoy your adorable baby beanies! Mix up the color scheme to fit different seasons and/or holidays, or embellish with appliques or buttons.

Please feel free to make and sell these Newborn Twin Chunky Beanies, but please DO NOT claim this pattern as your own nor should you sell my pattern, and DO NOT re-publish my photos as your own. DO NOT copy and paste my pattern anywhere, please link to it instead.*If you would like a PDF version of this post, you may get one through my Etsy shop for a small fee. This fee is to compensate for the view/s lost once you no longer need to return to the blog for the information, as you will have your own copy. Plus! It helps fund supplies for new projects to share with you!Shop EyeLoveKnots - Newborn Twin Chunky Beanies.Don't Crochet but Interested in Purchasing Your Own Chunky Baby Beanies? I will be adding these to my Etsy shop, as well as in other sizes and other colors. Feel free to send in your custom color and/or size requests. View color options here: Deborah Norville's Serenity Chunky Yarn.You May Also Like...

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My Whirlpool Coin Purse can be found in February 2018, Issue 41 of the Pattern Pack Pro. This issue features five coin purses! If you don't already subscribe to the Pattern Pack Pro, it's a great monthly crochet magazine that focuses specifically on a type of project to help build your repertoire. Click this image to subscribe now - this contains an affiliate link, meaning if you subscribe using it, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, PLUS! You get a discount by subscribing through my link.

Hello There!

Confession - I am a craft, coffee and cat addict! I love to crochet, make my own jewelry, make cards and invitations, hand write letters, paint, draw, do my nails, hang out on Pinterest, visit with other bloggers, share projects, bake, play with my cat Shiloh... The list goes on and on! Pleasure to meet you, and thanks for joining the journey! Craftedly Yours, Alexandra.

Sharing Policy

I love when you share my projects and recipes! But please be respectful.

Do not copy and paste my posts anywhere, rather you should link to them.

Do not sell my patterns or posts!

You may use one photo with link back when sharing my photos.

Some of my photos are not intended to be shared outside of the blog post, and that is why I have disabled the pinning option within them. These are mostly photos of my family, or the process of working up a project. Please be respectful and do not share these photos without permission from me.

Feel free to sell items made from my patterns and tutorials. Designer credit and a link back is very much appreciated, but not required.

I would love to see your work! Feel free to post to my Facebook page, Facebook.com/EyeLoveKnots.